Partner at Charbonnet Law Firm LLC
Practice Areas: Car Accident, Slip-and-Fall, Work-related Injury
Louisiana’s warm summers are perfect for getting out on the water—whether you’re boating, kayaking, or just relaxing at the lake. But before you set off, it’s essential to know the rules that help keep everyone safe. Louisiana boating laws cover everything from who can operate a vessel to when life jackets must be worn.
Understanding these safety rules isn’t just about following the law—it’s about preventing accidents and protecting lives. In this guide, we break down the key regulations, life jacket requirements, and safety tips every Louisiana boater should know.
With thousands of miles of rivers, bayous, and lakes, Louisiana offers endless opportunities for boating, swimming, and outdoor fun. But this access comes with responsibility. Every summer, boating accidents and drownings occur because of missing safety equipment, alcohol use, or inexperienced operators. Understanding the rules can make your time on the water safer for everyone involved.
Louisiana sets clear age and education rules for operating boats and personal watercraft. Anyone born after January 1, 1984, must complete a state-approved boating safety course to operate a motorboat with more than 10 horsepower.
Anyone born after January 1, 1984, must complete a state-approved boating safety course to operate a motorboat over 10 horsepower.
To operate a Jet Ski or personal watercraft, the operator must be at least 16 years old. Adults cannot legally allow minors under this age to operate watercraft. Boating while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is also against the law.
It is illegal to knowingly allow someone who is intoxicated or under the influence of drugs to operate any watercraft.
Every boat in Louisiana is required to have life jackets authorized by the US Coast Guard for every passenger. However, certain groups must wear them. Children under 17 must wear a life jacket at all times on vessels under 26 feet. All riders on personal watercraft and anyone being towed (such as tubing) must also wear them.
In Louisiana, children under the age of 17 must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while aboard vessels under 26 feet in length.
Life jackets must be the correct size, in good condition, and easily accessible—not locked away or buried under gear.
| Age Group | Vessel Type | Life Jacket Required | Notes |
| Under 17 | Boats under 26 ft | Yes | Must wear at all times; jacket must be U.S. Coast Guard-approved |
| All Ages | Personal Watercraft (PWC) | Yes | Required for both operator and passengers |
| Adults | Kayaks, Canoes, Paddleboards | No (unless underway) | Must have one accessible; strongly recommended while underway |
| Adults | Boats over 26 ft | No (unless rough water) | One jacket per person must be on board |
Louisiana law treats boating under the influence (BUI) the same as DUI. The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit is 0.08%. If you’re caught boating while impaired, You risk losing your boating rights, penalties, and jail time.
Boating under the influence is treated similarly to driving under the influence. Penalties may include fines, jail time, and loss of boating privileges.
Operating a boat safely requires full attention, good judgment, and alertness. Alcohol or drugs reduce all of these and increase the risk of a crash.
Boats in Louisiana must carry specific safety equipment. This includes:
All vessels must be equipped with proper lighting, a fire extinguisher, and an emergency sound-producing device.
Before each trip, inspect all equipment and make sure everyone knows where safety items are stored. It’s also smart to learn CPR and basic rescue steps in case someone falls overboard.
Boating accidents can cause serious injuries or even fatalities. When these accidents result from carelessness, lack of training, or unsafe behavior, the boat owner or operator may be legally responsible.
Louisiana follows a comparative fault system. If more than one person contributed to the accident, the law may reduce compensation based on each person’s share of the blame.
In 2023, Louisiana reported 29 boating fatalities and over 100 non-fatal accidents, many linked to failure to wear a life jacket.
If someone is injured due to another person’s negligence—such as allowing an unqualified person to operate the boat—they may have a valid personal injury claim.
You must be at least 16 years old and have completed a boating safety course if born after January 1, 1984. These rules apply to boats with motors over 10 horsepower.
Yes. Boats must carry a life jacket for every person on board. Children under 17 must wear one on small vessels, and everyone must wear one on personal watercraft.
Yes. Louisiana prohibits boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Violations may result in fines, jail time, or loss of boating privileges.
Each boat must have life jackets, a throwable flotation device (if over 16 feet), a fire extinguisher, navigation lights, and a distress signal like a horn or whistle.
If someone is injured due to negligence, the responsible party may be liable. Victims may be able to recover costs for medical treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Louisiana offers incredible water recreation opportunities but with those come legal responsibilities. Following state boating laws—especially those regarding life jackets, alcohol use, and safety equipment—can prevent injuries and save lives.
If you or someone close to you was hurt in a boating accident caused by negligence, Charbonnet Law Firm, LLC is here to help you understand your rights and next steps. Knowing the law is the first step to protecting your family on the water.
With over 50 years of legal experience serving families in the New Orleans area and surrounding Louisiana communities, our firm takes pride in providing clients with personalized legal services tailored to individual needs.
